BOCA RATON, Fla. -
Florida Atlantic University's D'Joun Smith has earned the Jim Thorpe Defensive Back of the Week for week three. Following the conclusion of the 2013 season, one defensive back will be named the Jim Thorpe honoree. Each week the organization selects one defensive back that had an outstanding game as its weekly recipient.

Smith, a junior cornerback from Miami, is the first player in the program's 13-year history to receive the national honor.

Earlier this week he became the first FAU football player to earn Conference USA Defensive Player of the Week honors.

Smith receives the accolades after he recorded a 75-yard interception return for a score, forced a fumble and recorded a pass breakup against the USF Bulls on Sept. 14. He also tallied four tackles in the game including one for a loss and was in on the play that allowed senior defensive lineman Cory Henry's fumble recovery and 10-yard score.

FAU will open its 2013 home season on Saturday, Sept. 21 versus Middle Tennessee State University at FAU Stadium. The game, scheduled to kick-off at 12:07 p.m., will air on CSS. For tickets, contact the FAU Ticket Office at 1-866-FAU-Owls.